neutroniaktivaatioon

Neutroniaktivaatio is a nuclear process and a fundamental analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of a sample. It involves bombarding a sample with neutrons, typically from a neutron source such as a nuclear reactor or a neutron generator. When a nucleus within the sample captures a neutron, it becomes an isotope, often a radioactive one. This newly formed radioactive isotope is in an excited state and subsequently de-excites by emitting gamma rays or other particles.

The emitted gamma rays have specific energies that are characteristic of the particular isotope and, therefore, the element that was activated. By measuring the energy and intensity of these gamma rays using a gamma-ray spectrometer, scientists can identify and quantify the elements present in the original sample. The intensity of the gamma rays is directly proportional to the amount of the activated isotope, allowing for quantitative analysis.

Neutroniaktivaatio analysis is a non-destructive technique, meaning the sample can often be preserved after analysis, which is a significant advantage in many applications. It is highly sensitive and can detect trace amounts of elements, making it valuable in fields such as geology, archaeology, environmental monitoring, forensic science, and materials science. The process requires careful handling of radioactive materials and appropriate safety measures due to the induced radioactivity.